Code of Practice: Formwork

SafeWork NSW has developed this Code of Practice: Formwork (PDF 1.4MB) (‘the Code’) on how to manage the risks associated with formwork.

It is an approved code of practice under section 274 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (WHS Act).

Scope and application

You should use this Code if you design, construct, erect, alter, maintain, dismantle or remove formwork.

This Code may be a useful reference for persons interested in duties that relate to construction work under the WHS Act and WHS Regulation.

For the purposes of this Code, the term ‘formwork’ will be used to describe both formwork AND falsework, unless otherwise specified.

This Code is intended to be read by  persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) (ordinarily a business or employer) who have management or control of formwork in the workplace. It includes information about specific control measures required under the WHS Regulation for formwork.

Other relevant Codes of Practice

You should read this Code in conjunction with the SafeWork NSW Code of Practice Construction Work (PDF 1MB).

Sections

This Code comprises eight sections as outlined below. At the start of each section is a list of any relevant sections from the WHS Act and/or clauses from the WHS Regulation, which can be referred to for more information.

Section 1. Introduction

Section 2. Design and planning of formwork

Section 3. System of work

Section 4. Types of formwork

Section 5. Common hazards and controls

Section 6. Falls

Section 7. Erecting, altering, stripping/dismantling formwork

Section 8. Slip and jump forms

A note on the amended Formwork Code of Practice that was re-released in March 2021

The amendments in the March 2021 Formwork Code of Practice were made to correct minor publishing errors identified following consultation with industry stakeholders to implement the June 2020 Formwork Code of Practice.

Examples of publishing errors include re-positioning some images, correcting grammar and standardising terminology throughout the document.

SafeWork NSW continues to work with formwork industry stakeholders to implement the Formwork Code of Practice by providing industry briefings and workshops during 2021. The amendments do not change the requirements in the June 2020 Formwork Code of Practice.

Where possible, the information in the June 2020 Formwork Code of Practice was aligned to guidance material from Safe Work Australia and other jurisdictions, to achieve a more consistent approach across jurisdictions.

Download the Code of Practice: Formwork

Download the Code of Practice: Formwork (PDF 1.4MB)